What Are The Old Northside Boards?
The "Old Northside Boards" refers to the leadership bodies of the Old Northside Neighborhood Association (ONSNA) and the Old Northside Foundation. Together, they govern and support one of the city’s most premier historic districts.
Because the Old Northside is a protected historic area, its management is split between community advocacy and strict preservation rules.
Old Northside Neighborhood Association (ONSNA)
The Old Northside Neighborhood Association Board is the primary civic body for residents. It focuses on neighborhood safety, social events, and representing the community's interests to the city government.
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Role: Organizes events like the "Plunder in the Park," manages neighborhood communications, and addresses infrastructure issues.
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Key Committee: The Land Use Committee (LUC) is perhaps the most influential part of this board. It reviews any proposed changes to properties (like additions, new fences, or paint colors) before they go to the city for official approval.
The Foundation Board
The Old Northside Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1990. While the Association handles the "people" side, the Foundation handles the "assets."
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Role: It focuses on fundraising and long-term capital projects.
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Impact: The Foundation is responsible for maintaining neighborhood parks (like Great Oak Commons and Shawn Grove Park) and funding historic beautification, such as the neighborhood’s signature Victorian-style street lamps.
External Oversight: The IHPC
While not a "neighborhood board" in the sense of being run by residents, the Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission (IHPC) is the legal authority over the area
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All property owners in the Old Northside must follow the Historic Preservation Plan.​
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The neighborhood boards work as a liaison; if you want to change your house, you usually talk to the Land Use Committee first, then they help you navigate the IHPC legal process.